5 Must Visit Nara Attractions & Travel Guide

1. Todai-ji Temple (東大寺)

Founded in the 8th century, this temple which houses the massive Vairocana statue, popularly known as Daibutsu (Great Buddha), was burned down twice in fires that broke out as result of war.

The present structure, which was rebuilt in 1709, was scaled down to 2/3 of the original size. Nevertheless it is the largest wooden structure temple in the world. This temple is one of the main Nara attractions.

Opening Hours

Daily 8:00am – 5:00pm

2. Sika Deer in Nara Park

According to legend, a mighty god from Kashima Shrine came to Nara riding on a white deer in the 8th century. Since then deer have been respected and protected as divine messengers. Hence there are plenty deer roaming around.

Fun part is, you can buy Shika Senbei (deer crackers) and feed them. The deer in this park are so polite that they bow to you when requesting for Shika Senbei!

3. Kofuku-ji Temple (興福寺)

Established in 7th century, Kofukuji used to be the family temple of the most powerful Fujiwara family clan during Nara & Heian Periods. The temple consisted of over 150 buildings at the height of Fujiwara influence.

The five story pagoda is Japan’s second tallest at 50 meters, just 7 meters shorter than the five story pagoda at Kyoto’s Toji Temple. Kofukuji’s pagoda is both a landmark and symbol of Nara. It was reconstructed in 1426 after it has burned down 5 times.

Opening Hours

Daily 9:00am – 5:00pm

4. Kasuga Taisha Grand Shrine (春日大社)

Established in 768 AD and rebuilt several times over the centuries, it is the shrine of the Fujiwara family. Both paths to this shrine are lined with approx 2000 stone laterns and the eaves of the shrine itself are decorated with around 1000 hanging bronze lanterns.

Opening Hours

Daily 6:30am – 5:30pm

5. Higashimuki Shopping Street (東向き商店街)

The Higashimuki Shopping Street a 250-metre-long covered shopping street, is located just beside Kintetsu Nara Station. It is full of souvenir shops and a variety of restaurants.

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Disclaimer :

All the information above is correct upon published & is subject to change without further notice. Please make an effort to double check. Neither the author nor owner will be liable for any damage or lost caused.